We all have home improvement tasks that get delayed. But when the sun is out and you’re enjoying the garden, the condition of your home’s exterior can become hard to ignore. Faded colours, peeling paint, or general wear might prompt you to take action. Repainting the outside of your home is one of the most effective ways to refresh its appearance, boost kerb appeal, and protect it from the elements.
Whether you’re updating the whole property or just giving it a quick facelift, exterior house painting preparation is essential. Proper prep ensures the paint adheres well and delivers a smooth, long-lasting finish. So, how do you prep a wall for painting, and what steps should you follow?
At Brush Strokes Decorating, we know that the key to a beautiful, long-lasting exterior lies in thorough preparation. From cleaning and surface repairs to expert priming and painting, we handle every stage with care and precision. Trust our experienced team to refresh your home’s appearance and protect it from the elements.
Call us on 0203 621 1234 or email us at info@brushstrokesdecorators.com to get started.
We can take the stress out of preparing your home for exterior painting – leaving you with a flawless finish that lasts.
Why Exterior House Painting Is Worth It
Before diving into the how-to, let’s touch on the “why.” Painting an external wall doesn’t just make your home look better – it also serves as a protective layer against the elements. High-quality exterior paint shields your walls from rain, wind, UV rays, and temperature changes. With the proper preparation and materials, a new coat of paint can last for years, boosting your home’s value and making maintenance easier in the long run.
How To Prepare Exterior Walls Before Painting
Step 1: Clean The Exterior Walls Thoroughly
It may not be glamorous, but cleaning is one of the most crucial steps in preparing the exterior of your house for painting. Dust, grime, algae, and mould will prevent paint from sticking properly and can lead to blistering or flaking.
Use a pressure washer if you have one. Otherwise, you can scrub walls manually with a stiff brush and a mild detergent or diluted bleach solution. Don’t forget to rinse thoroughly and allow sufficient drying time before proceeding to the next stage. Are you painting exterior walls for the first time? Cleaning is critical, as untreated surfaces can be more prone to absorbing moisture and pollutants.
Step 2: Remove Any Loose Or Flaking Paint
If you’re planning to repaint your house exterior, the old layers need to be in good condition. Loose, cracked, or peeling paint must go. Scrape it off using a wire brush or paint scraper. If large areas are affected, a pressure washer can be helpful – just be sure the surface dries completely before painting.
Once you’ve removed any flaking paint, preparing a wall for painting involves smoothing the transition between bare patches and intact paint. Sand the edges so that there is no noticeable ridge, creating a seamless finish when you apply the new paint.
Step 3: Repair Damage And Cracks
External walls can develop cracks or other damage over time, especially on older or exposed properties. Inspect your walls closely. If you find any holes, crumbling mortar, or cracked bricks, these will need to be repaired before you reach for your paintbrush.
Use an exterior-grade filler or putty, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Repointing may be necessary for brickwork with deteriorating mortar. Once any filler or cement work is dry, sand it back to create a smooth surface that blends in with the rest of the wall.
Step 4: Check for Damp Issues
Before you repaint the exterior of your house, ensure that your walls are dry, both inside and out. Persistent damp spots can ruin fresh paint, especially if underlying structural or insulation problems cause them.
Look for signs like white salt deposits (efflorescence), blistered paint, or dark patches. If in doubt, consult a builder or local painter and decorator who can assess the situation and advise on appropriate damp-proofing measures before painting.
Step 5: Clear The Area Around Your Home
This might sound simple, but it’s often overlooked. A tidy, clear workspace makes the job safer and more efficient. Move garden furniture, hoses, plant pots, bins, and any other obstacles away from the walls to ensure a clear path.
If you have climbing plants or trellises, tie them back or remove them temporarily to prevent damage. You should also mask window and door frames, pipework, outdoor lights, and any other features you don’t want to cover in paint accidentally. Consider using dust sheets to protect patios or decking.
Step 6: Prime The Walls
To ensure your exterior brick paint or masonry paint lasts, priming is essential. Bare or porous surfaces – and walls with chalky or powdery residue – will benefit from a stabilising primer. This ensures good adhesion and prevents your topcoat from flaking or peeling prematurely.
What type of primer should you use? Different surfaces (brick, render, stone) require different products, so it’s always advisable to seek expert advice. Contact a trusted painter and decorator near you in Bromley, Kent, who can guide you through the top house painting trends for your wall type.
Step 7: Use The Right Paint And Tools
Choosing good home paint isn’t just about colour – it’s about durability, weather resistance, and suitability for your specific wall surface. Invest in a quality exterior wall paint, ideally one that includes anti-mould or waterproofing properties for extra protection.
When it comes to application, remember these expert painter tips for protecting your paint from weather damage:
- Work from top to bottom to avoid drips and streaks.
- Follow the paint manufacturer’s drying times between coats.
- Use the right brush or roller size for your wall texture.
- Apply at least two coats for optimal coverage and a long-lasting finish.
Don’t Forget To Add Style With Creative Touches
Are you looking for ideas for painting the outside of your house? Don’t be afraid to get creative with colour or texture. Here are some of the latest trends for how to paint the outside of a house:
- Two-tone paint jobs with contrasting trims.
- Earthy tones that blend with the natural surroundings.
- Bold colours to highlight period features or architectural elements.
You can even experiment with creative exterior wall paint for your home, such as limewash finish or textured masonry paint, for a distinctive look.
Leave It To The Experts
While DIY can be rewarding, exterior wall painting is one of those tasks where professional help makes all the difference. At Brush Strokes Decorating, we deliver high-quality results across London, Kent, and Surrey. Our experienced team manages everything, from exterior house painting preparation to final costing efficiently and expertly. Save time, avoid stress, and ensure a flawless finish. Call 0203 621 1234 or email info@brushstrokesdecorators.com for your free quote and let us transform your home’s exterior with confidence.